Federal Police Investigations in Rio Could Jeopardize Flávio Bolsonaro's Path to the Presidency

Brazilian journalist Merval Pereira assessed that the progress of Federal Police investigations regarding organized crime in Rio de Janeiro could weaken Senator Flávio Bolsonaro's pre-candidacy for the presidency. According to Pereira, operations targeting regional politicians in recent months directly affect the political alliances of the bolsonarismo movement in Rio de Janeiro. It is claimed that Flávio Bolsonaro is closely associated with the political group involved in the investigation, which includes individuals who have already been arrested.

As part of the investigations, individuals supported by Flávio Bolsonaro were also targeted; one of them, former Mayor of Belford Roxo Márcio Canella, was caught red-handed after a rifle was found in his vehicle. These political and legal developments have caused significant uncertainties and delays in the Liberal Party's (PL) state and presidential candidate lists. In the past, background talks regarding the possible candidacy of Jair Bolsonaro's wife, Michelle Bolsonaro, were also reflected in the press.

On the other hand, it is noted that in the 'Unha e Carne' operation, Flávio Bolsonaro is officially neither a defendant nor the subject of a complaint. The Superior Electoral Court (TSE), through a decision made in June, ruled for the removal of publications directly linking the senator to criminal organizations and the operation. The court stated that such claims made without concrete evidence or an official indictment could be considered premature and negative electoral propaganda.